Zingerman's Roadhouse Barback

The Roadhouse Barback and Bartender Support position is a vital role within the dynamic and bustling environment of the Roadhouse, a highly regarded bar and restaurant that is part of the Zingerman's community. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent service, and quality offerings, the Roadhouse provides a memorable experience to guests through its well-maintained bar and attentive team. The Roadhouse prides itself on a culture that values punctuality, positivity, teamwork, and a solution-oriented mindset, which are essential qualities for anyone stepping into this role.

This part-time position offers up to 29 hours per week, including weekends and holidays, demanding availability both in the morning and evening shifts. Typical working hours vary and include shifts such as 2pm-9pm, 9am-2pm, and 3pm-10pm, making it ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced and flexible schedule. With a compensation package offering $16-$19 per hour, composed of a base wage of $8.50 per hour plus tips, this role is financially rewarding for those who enjoy engaging with guests and being part of a lively team environment.

The primary responsibility of the Barback and Bartender Support role is to provide seamless assistance to bartenders and guests, ensuring a smooth and efficient bar operation. This includes stocking and maintaining inventory behind the bar, such as filling ice bins, polishing glassware, replenishing fresh garnishes, and organizing plates, utensils, napkins, and menus. Maintaining cleanliness and order during service is crucial, which involves keeping countertops wiped, tidying bottles and equipment, washing dirty glassware, and pre-bussing guest areas. The role demands proactive engagement, always looking for ways to support teammates and anticipate guest needs.

Support extends to service tasks like refilling guests’ drinks at the bar, assisting in pouring draft beers, wines, and non-alcoholic specialty drinks when needed, and maintaining bar areas such as the keg cooler and returnables. The role also involves participating in closing duties, including trash disposal, restocking beverages, and ensuring the workspace is left clean and organized. A strong knowledge of menu items and the ability to advise guests on drink and food pairings is an important facet of this position, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Candidates will actively engage in learning about the monthly specials, wine service systems, and the nuances that make the Roadhouse unique. Delivering the Zingerman’s Experience means handling customer complaints effectively, communicating feedback to management, and being courteous and dependable at all times. This role is not just about physical tasks but also about embodying the spirit of hospitality and teamwork that Zingerman’s and the Roadhouse uphold.

Physical demands of the position include the ability to move efficiently between different areas of the bar and kitchen, bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds safely, balance trays with drinks or dishes, and navigate stairs between floors. Success in this role comes from a sense of responsibility, initiative to learn and grow, excellent interpersonal skills with guests and colleagues, and a bold, engaging, and entertaining attitude that contributes to a positive and drama-free workplace.